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horsehair lichen
Scientific Name: Bryoria
Family: Parmeliaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Horsehair Lichen (Bryoria spp.)
Horsehair lichen refers to several species of lichen, particularly those within the genus Bryoria. While the scientific name is Bryoria, some common names include black moss, black tree lichen, and edible horsehair lichen. Other species referred to as horsehair lichen include those of the genus Alectoria. However, many different species exist with variable characteristics.
Considerations for Pets
- Horsehair lichens are composed of intricately branched filaments that may resemble hair.
- Some sources refer to "edible horsehair lichen," suggesting that certain species are consumed by humans.
Considerations for Children
- Horsehair lichens are composed of intricately branched filaments that may resemble hair.
- Some sources refer to "edible horsehair lichen," suggesting that certain species are consumed by humans.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Genus: Bryoria (and sometimes Alectoria)
- Family: Parmeliaceae
- Kingdom: Fungi
- Phylum: Ascomycota
- Class: Lecanoromycetes
- Synonyms/Related Terms: horsetail lichen
- Sulcaria badia is mentioned as "bay horsehair lichen"
Distribution and Habitat
- Horsehair lichens have a widespread distribution, especially in boreal and cool temperate areas.
- They are often found hanging from conifers or, less frequently, hardwoods.
- One species was discovered in the inland temperate rainforest of Canada.
- Specific locations mentioned include eastern Washington (on larch), Mount Roberts, upstate Washington, and Glen Affric.
Morphological Characteristics
- Horsehair lichens are characterized by intricately branched filaments.
- The thallus (body) can be long, pale gray to dark smokey brown, hanging in clumps.
- The slender strands may contain long, narrow slits on the surface.
- Bryoria furcellata (Burred Horsehair Lichen) has dark brown branches with short pointed side branches.
Quirky Facts
- Hanging tree lichens (black horsehair lichen, green old man's beard lichen) are still used by the Kootenais, Salish and Blackfeet as a traditional food.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Horsehair lichen can be found growing on Lodgepole Pine bark.
- One instance mentions horsehair lichen hanging from a branch of a ponderosa pine with wolf lichen (Letharia vulpina).
Further Information
- Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History, Department of Botany
- Bryoria Brodo & D. Hawksw.